As the world grieves the loss of Black Sabbath’s iconic frontman Ozzy Osbourne, his wife, Sharon, has extended a heartfelt gesture to fans traveling to his hometown. This comes as millions of fans prepare to say their final goodbyes.
On July 22, the rock legend died shortly after performing at Villa Park in Birmingham, England, marking his farewell performance with the original band members after 20 years. Despite his health issues, he managed to perform in front of 40,000 heavy metal enthusiasts before retiring to his UK home, where he passed surrounded by family.
Ozzy’s funeral is scheduled in Birmingham, his hometown, tomorrow (July 30).
Due to financial constraints faced by the city council—evidenced by a need to save $204 million—and an ongoing garbage collection strike since the year’s start, Sharon has stepped in to help. She has offered to cover expenses for road closures and security for her husband’s procession through Birmingham, which will notably cross the Black Sabbath bridge.
“Ozzy was more than a music legend – he was a son of Birmingham,” stated Councillor Zafar Iqbal, the Lord Mayor of Birmingham.
“Having recently been awarded the Freedom of the City and following his celebrated appearance at the Back to the Beginning concert at Villa Park earlier this month, it was important to the city that we support a fitting, dignified tribute ahead of a private family funeral. We know how much this moment will mean to his fans.”
He further added, “We’re proud to host it here with his loving family in the place where it all began, and we are grateful that they have generously offered to pay to enable this to happen and support the city is giving him the farewell he deserves.”
A private ceremony for the family will follow the procession.
The Osbourne family released this statement last week to announce his passing: “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love.
“We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time.”